FREE JEWELRY PROJECT FROM BEAD SPARKLE

Combining geometric brass shapes with antiqued brass chain produces a unique statement necklace that's both fancy and casual. This necklace can be modified to accommodate a number of shapes including chevrons, half circles, and rectangles.

This tutorial by Cathy Zwicker is excerpted from Bead Sparkle (The Taunton Press, 2016) author by Susan Beal.

YOU'LL NEED:

FINISHED SIZE: 26 in.

1. Use wire cutters to cut the chain into four pieces: Make two pieces 2 inches long and the other two pieces 11 inches long.

2. Use pliers to open one jump ring and loop it through the hole in one brass triangle that will be the lower piece of your necklace. Then link one 2-inch chain length onto this open jump ring. Close the jump ring securely. Repeat with another jump ring and the second 2-inch chain on the other side of the same triangle.

3. Use pliers to open one jump ring and loop it through the hole in one corner of the second brass triangle. With that jump ring still open, loop the loose end of the 2-inch chain that you just attached to the lower triangle piece. Also loop the end of one 11-inch chain onto this same jump ring. Close the jump ring securely with the pliers.

4. Repeat step 3 with the other triangle corner, the other 2-inch loose chain end, and the remaining 11-inch chain. Make sure both sides are assembled the same so your necklace hangs correctly.

5. Add the clasp by opening a jump ring with the pliers. Use it to attach the clasp to the loose end of one 11-inch chain. Complete the clasp by adding the last jump ring to the other loose 11-inch chain.

Tip: I chose two triangle sizes, but they can be the same size if you'd like. If your triangles don't already have holes, you can add them using hole-punch pliers.

About the Author: A jewelry designer and writer, Susan Beal blogs at WestCoastCrafty.com. Susan has written many craft books, including Bead Simple, Button It Up, and Hand-Stitched Home. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her family. Don't forget to purchase your copy of Bead Sparkle (The Taunton Press, 2016) in our online store.